We first reported that Microsoft would stop development of new Zune devices, although it would continue producing existing devices, back in March, together with our thoughts.

Well, after a bit of a roller-coaster ride, with Microsoft pulling the Zune HD from its website but then reinstating it, official word has come from the “Windows Phone Radio” podcast, that Microsoft will stop making the Zune HD. At around the 12:35 mark of episode 45, the comment made is: “we have the announcement that we’re not going to be making the Zune HD anymore”. We agree with the rest of the comment, it’s a bummer as there are a lot of fans out there.continue reading

Sony has announced that, after almost 20 years, it will terminate production of MiniDisc Walkman portable media players (PMPs) as of the coming September. It has however promised to continue to support the format by producing MiniDisc media. Sony will also continue making bookshelf stereos with a MiniDisc slot.

The MiniDisc format, which was introduced in 1992, saw mixed success in the US and Europe but was hugely popular in Japan. Sony’s format was poised to replace the analogue cassette as a re-recordable media format. MiniDiscs also featured a protected surface, unlike CDs prone to scratches format, and better anti-skip protection.continue reading

Bloomberg has reported that Microsoft will not introduce any new versions of the Zune portable media player (PMP) and instead focus on mobile phones. The Zune software will continue to evolve on smartphones running Windows Phone 7.

Microsoft will however continue to produce existing hardware, which we guess includes the Zune HD. The decision hasn’t been officially announced, but was rather cited from a Bloomberg source.

Though lack-luster sales were quoted as being a key culprit for this decision, the Zune family has over the years created a very loyal following. As of today the Zune HD has an amazing 927 customer reviews on Amazon which really says the opposite.continue reading